Sports Authority closing by summer's end

The sporting goods chain has just begun a "Going out of Business" sale.

WINTER GARDEN After weeks of speculation and a prior announcement that only 143 of 450 sporting goods stores would close amid Chapter 11 bankruptcy procedures, Sports Authority CEO Michael Foss announced on May 25 the closure of all Sports Authority stores by the end of August.

In a prior Sports Authority announcement months ago, the location at Winter Garden Village would have been spared, but officials have elected to close all 450 stores.

"We will be holding store closing sales at all of our locations that will allow you to take advantage of big discounts on great brands," Foss wrote in an official statement. He said Sports Authority and its predecessor companies had been in business since 1919.

In the official release, he also said the Sports Authority League loyalty program and Sports Authority credit cards terminated as of May 25. Workers will accept exchanges and returns through June 25 and gift cards through June 28. Warranties, on the other hand, will continue without interruption through Asurion.

The "Going out of Business" sale is underway, and all items--with some exclusions--are currently available for up to 30% off.

The other West Orange County location of Sports Authority is at 7500 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando.